Riyadh Air and Mastercard have announced a strategic partnership aimed at integrating payments, travel, and technology to enhance both consumer and business travel experiences.
As a new airline without legacy systems, Riyadh Air is able to develop a financial and payment ecosystem from the outset.
The collaboration will introduce consumer payments, premium airport services, and B2B travel payment solutions.
Riyadh Air-branded Mastercard credit and prepaid cards will launch for Saudi residents in late 2026.
Fully integrated into the Riyadh Air app, the digital-first cards will allow users to earn flights, upgrades, lifestyle rewards, and access exclusive experiences, while managing all features and tracking rewards in one place.
“This partnership reflects Mastercard’s role in creating meaningful solutions, paving the way for smart, secure and seamless payments,”
said Dr Dimitrios Dosis, President, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, Mastercard.
“Together with Riyadh Air, we are creating an integrated digitally-native ecosystem that delivers value at every touchpoint, for guests, travel agents, airlines and hospitality partners, while reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a global travel hub.”
Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air, said:
“Our deep collaboration with Mastercard reflects not only our commitment to be a digital native airline but strong confidence in our future trajectory. It allows us to build a travel experience that is seamless, digital and distinctly differentiated.”
Riyadh Air will also introduce an airline-branded virtual card programme for travel trade settlements, improving efficiency, security, and reconciliation for travel intermediaries globally.
Mastercard and Riyadh Air will establish a joint centre of excellence to develop and test new solutions, leveraging shared data and emerging technologies.
Featured image credit: Mastercard
